Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the flavors of fall with these delightful Baked Pumpkin Donuts, topped with a luscious maple glaze. These soft, moist treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, making them a seasonal favorite that everyone will love. Easy to make and healthier than traditional fried donuts, they combine pumpkin puree with warm spices for a comforting taste of autumn.
These Baked Pumpkin Donuts are more than just a treat; they embody the essence of autumn. Imagine the aroma of pumpkin and warm spices filling your kitchen as you bake these delightful donuts. Topped with a sweet maple glaze, they are sure to bring joy to your mornings.
The Perfect Fall Treat
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm donut. These Baked Pumpkin Donuts channel the essence of autumn, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices that evoke cozy nights by the fire. They're an excellent addition to any fall gathering, whether it's a family brunch or a festive get-together with friends. Plus, they’re baked, which means less guilt without sacrificing flavor.
The versatility of these donuts makes them a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee, or pack them for a midday snack. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a nostalgic feel that many associate with homemade goodness.
Easy to Make and Customize
One of the beauties of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you're on your way to creating a delightful batch of donuts in no time. Baking rather than frying not only eases the process but also provides a healthier alternative, making these treats perfect for the whole family.
Feel free to customize your donuts! The base is incredibly adaptable; you can mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of cream cheese for added flavor. Additionally, if you’re unable to find pumpkin puree, you can easily substitute it with sweet potato or even applesauce for a different take on this seasonal favorite.
Why Maple Glaze Makes it Better
No donut is complete without a spectacular glaze, and this maple glaze takes these baked pumpkin delights to new heights. Combining powdered sugar with rich maple syrup not only creates a beautiful finish but also adds an irresistible depth of flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin spices. It's sweet but not overpowering, allowing the flavors of the donuts to shine through.
The glaze is also easy to adjust based on your personal preference. If you love a thicker coating, simply add less milk; for a drizzle, increase the liquid. This adaptability makes it fun to create your own signature donut experience right in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Donuts
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Maple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1-2 tbsp milk
Now you're ready to bring these ingredients together!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and sugars. Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
Bake
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and Glaze
Let the donuts cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Meanwhile, mix the glaze ingredients and dip the cooled donuts in.
Enjoy your delicious donuts!
Tips for Making Perfect Donuts
When making these baked pumpkin donuts, be sure not to over mix the batter. Incorporating the wet and dry ingredients until just combined will ensure a light and fluffy texture. Over mixing can lead to dense donuts that miss the mark on that delightful mouthfeel you’re after.
Another crucial tip is to fill your donut pan evenly. To achieve uniform size, use a piping bag or a zippered bag with the corner snipped off to fill each cavity. This method prevents messy fingers and ensures a neat, consistent look once your donuts are baked.
Storing and Freezing Your Donuts
If you find yourself with leftovers (though good luck with that!), these donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. To prolong their freshness, however, you can also refrigerate them. When stored correctly, they maintain their flavor and texture without becoming stale too quickly.
For longer storage, consider freezing them! Place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and warm them slightly in the oven for that freshly baked taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pumpkin donuts as they are, or amp up the experience with your favorite accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform them into an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with seasonal beverages like spiced chai, apple cider, or even a pumpkin spice latte.
For a fun twist, consider serving them as part of a brunch spread alongside other fall-flavored treats, like cinnamon rolls or apple fritters. This way, your guests can sample a variety of flavors and textures, making for a memorable and festive gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used. Just ensure it's puréed and not too watery.
→ How do I store the leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze
Savor the flavors of fall with these delightful Baked Pumpkin Donuts, topped with a luscious maple glaze. These soft, moist treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, making them a seasonal favorite that everyone will love. Easy to make and healthier than traditional fried donuts, they combine pumpkin puree with warm spices for a comforting taste of autumn.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 donuts
What You'll Need
For the Donuts
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Maple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1-2 tbsp milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and sugars. Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the donuts cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Meanwhile, mix the glaze ingredients and dip the cooled donuts in.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 2g